WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.) have introduced a bipartisan resolution emphasizing the significance of the U.S.-Senegal relationship and urging the Senegalese government to hold free, fair, transparent, and inclusive elections on February 25, 2024.
Ranking Member Risch expressed concerns about the political climate in Senegal, stating, "Though president Sall's commitment not to seek an unconstitutional third term was widely applauded, I remain concerned about closing political space, repression of the political opposition, and lack of transparency of electoral processes. I am hopeful that a democratic election in February will further solidify the United States' relationship with Senegal as an ally and partner."
Chair Cardin acknowledged Senegal's history of being a stable democracy in Africa but expressed worries about recent developments. He said, "Credible allegations that the current Senegalese administration has restricted freedom of speech and the press, used the judicial system to target political opponents and civil society activists, and implemented electoral law changes designed to reduce the competitiveness of opposition parties and candidates are deeply troubling. The United States must closely watch the conduct of next year's elections and take steps to hold accountable those who undermine democracy in Senegal. I stand in solidarity with the Senegalese people and their democratic aspirations."
The resolution acknowledges Senegal as one of the most stable democracies in Africa and commends the efforts of Senegalese civil society organizations dedicated to electoral reform. It also expresses solidarity with the people of Senegal and encourages them to exercise their right to vote and refrain from acts of violence during the upcoming elections.
The full text of the resolution can be found [here](insert link).
The resolution introduced by Senators Risch and Cardin highlights the importance of ensuring free and fair elections in Senegal. With concerns about the political climate and allegations of restrictions on freedom of speech and press, it is crucial for the United States to closely monitor the conduct of the elections and hold accountable any individuals who undermine democracy in Senegal.
Senegal has a long-standing tradition of peaceful, democratic transfers of power, and it is imperative that this tradition continues. The upcoming elections on February 25, 2024, will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers as Senegal selects a new president.
The resolution recognizes the work of Senegalese civil society organizations dedicated to electoral reform. These organizations play a vital role in ensuring transparency and inclusivity in the electoral process. Their efforts are commendable and contribute to the strength of Senegal's democracy.
As the United States reaffirms its commitment to the U.S.-Senegal relationship, it is crucial to support the Senegalese people in their democratic aspirations. The resolution encourages the people of Senegal to exercise their right to vote and urges them to refrain from acts of violence during the elections.
With the introduction of this bipartisan resolution, Senators Risch and Cardin send a strong message of support for peaceful, free, and fair elections in Senegal. The United States stands in solidarity with the Senegalese people and their pursuit of democracy.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.foreign.senate.gov/press/rep/release/risch-cardin-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-supporting-peaceful-free-and-fair-elections-in-senegal
